Vermilion County, Illinois

73rd and 125th Illinois Volunteer Infantry A Friend Forever A National Cemetery System Abraham Lincoln Abraham Lincoln Abraham Lincoln Abraham Lincoln - Eighth Judicial District Abraham Lincoln - Eighth Judicial District / A Friend of Lincoln Abraham Lincoln at Danville Presbyterian Church Abraham Lincoln Delivered an Impromptu Address Abraham Lincoln Forded Stony Creek Abraham Lincoln in Tilton, Illinois Address by President Lincoln Aircraft in Honor of Chanute Air Force Base Alumni who Served in Korean War American Revolutionary War Memorial Croghan Treaty with Pontiac Danville (Illinois) National Cemetery Danville National Cemetery Danville's Lincoln Dedicated to All Veterans Dedicated To The Fallen Heroes Detroit - Kaskaskia Indian Trail Dixie Highway Dr. William Fithian Home Everyday Heroes Georgetown Area Honor Roll Georgetown Parade of Patriots Monument Henning (Illinois) War Memorial Historic Millstone In Honor of All Who Served In Honor of Those Who Served Landing Ship Tanks (LST's) Memorial Lincoln & Douglas in Danville Lincoln / Lamon Law Office Lincoln's Danville Friends Lindley Sign Post Forest Major Kenneth D. Bailey Memorial To Westville Area Coal Miners Pilot Township (War) Memorial Pioneer Jet Avaitors of the Korean War Potawatomi - A Trail of Death Potomac (Illinois) War Memorial Proudly We Pay Tribute Robert E. Wurtsbaugh Servicemen From Tilton Sidell Veterans War Memorial Soldiers of Vermilion County Illinois The Original Milestone 121 The Temple / Danville USA The Treaty Between Harrison and the Indians Tilton Honor Roll Trail of Death 1838 Two Trees Reach for Heaven Vermilion County Korean and Vietnam War Memorial Vermilion County War Memorial Veterans Honor Roll Westville War Memorials Women's War Memorial Workers Memorial World War I Memorial World War II Memorial World War II War Memorial
Vermilion County, Illinois has a rich and diverse history dating back to its establishment in 1826. The area was once inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Kickapoo, Piankashaw, and Wea. The first European settlers arrived in the late 1700s, attracted by the fertile lands and abundant waterways.

The county's location along the Wabash River played a significant role in its early development. The river served as a crucial transportation route, enabling trade and communication with neighboring communities. Additionally, the presence of coal and mineral-rich lands led to the rapid growth of the mining industry in the mid-19th century. This further fueled the county's economic expansion and attracted settlers from around the country.

The county witnessed its fair share of historical events during the Civil War era. Many residents enlisted in the Union Army, contributing to the war effort. Vermilion County also served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, with several stations providing shelter and assistance to escaped slaves seeking freedom.

As the 20th century began, Vermilion County experienced significant industrial growth. The area became known for its manufacturing and agriculture sectors, which produced a variety of goods, including farm equipment, textiles, and food products. The county's largest city, Danville, became a hub for manufacturing and commerce, contributing to the region's economic prosperity.

Today, Vermilion County remains an important agricultural and industrial center in Illinois. The area's historical significance, natural beauty, and vibrant community continue to attract visitors and residents alike, making it a place with a proud heritage and promising future.
Brief timeline of the history of Vermilion County, Illinois:

  • 1819 - Vermilion County is established by the Illinois General Assembly.
  • 1826 - The first permanent settlement, known as Franklin, is established.
  • 1830 - Danville is founded and becomes the county seat.
  • 1851 - Completion of the Wabash and Erie Canal boosts economic development in the county.
  • 1861-1865 - Vermilion County contributes to the Union war effort during the American Civil War.
  • 1870s - The coal mining industry experiences rapid growth in Vermilion County.
  • 1942-1945 - World War II leads to increased industrial production and employment in the county.
  • 1972 - The Vermilion County Museum is established to preserve local history.
  • 1990s - The decline of coal mining impacts the economy of Vermilion County.
  • 2000 - The Kickapoo State Park is opened, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • Present - Vermilion County continues to focus on diversifying its economy and promoting tourism.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Vermilion County, Illinois.